Given my posts on tattooed pigs and pigskins received so many controversial reactions, I can only imagine how these tables from Armin Blasbichler Studio, which combine furniture design with taxidermy, are going to go over.

Orson I and Orson II are part of a limited series of tables which feature stuffed livestock incorporated into the design by the Italian multidisciplinary studio.

"ORSON, I'm Home” Orson I, 2010

“ORSON, I'm Home” I is a coffee table which has a stuffed sow as the base on which a laminated glass and cotton cloth tabletop sit:
dimensions: L 250cm, W 120cm, H 74cm, 210kg

Armin Blasbichler Studio is a multidisciplinary practice based in Brixen/Bressanone, Italy specialised in cross-linking the fields of architecture, design and visual arts. The studio is committed to developing innovative projects that are built on critical research, transgression and the experience of chance both physically and conceptually.

This unique handmade coffee table has been getting so much buzz that Seattle-based designer/craftsman Jeff Skierka and his partner, graphic designer Roslyn Hyde are working as fast as they can to get it into production.

The Mixtape Table is a 12:1 scaled replica of a cassette tape turned into a functional coffee table. Made of reclaimed maple, walnut and lucite, the 47.25" x 30" x 5" handcrafted piece has a protective 3/8" plexiglass top. The table is completely reversible to feature sides A and B.

The first prototype and one of a kind table has been quickly gathering attention across the internet, with many fans requesting its production.

Jeff and Roslyn are responding to the demand with future versions which will be CNC machined out of high grade plywood (with a variety of ply combinations) and a glass top. Both plywood and handmade hardwood versions will be soon available.

above: Jeff and partner Roslyn in their Seattle workshop

According to Roslyn, Jeff is speaking with manufacturers with CNC capabilities, water jet cutters for the glass top, visiting local plywood and hardwood suppliers, among a list of other things over the next couple of weeks. He is planning on having a rough estimate for the plywood Mixtape Table by the end of the week. Jeff will also be creating 1 or 2 more prototypes as well. If you are interested in a hardwood handmade table, those will also be available to order soon.

One Empire Wide is a series of sculptural works exploring discarded Canadiana through scale model ice fishing huts by artist David Trautrimas. The 22 miniature models shown here, made with materials and detritus from Canadian culture, will soon be on exhibit. Details at the end of the post.

In ‘One Empire Wide’ discarded Canadiana is reinterpreted by the artist as architectural models of ice fishing huts. Akin to their full sized counterparts, these scaled down versions engage the vernacular of reclamation, but in lieu of scrap building materials they reuse the detritus of recent Canadian history for their designs. From disposable fast food containers, failed companies, defunct government commissions, abandoned corporate branding to outdated military technology and emigrant sports franchises, these discarded cultural and social fragments are thoughtfully crafted into ingenious, inhabitable structures.

Each lovely little architectural model will be made in an edition of four and available for purchase at the price of $500 a piece.